Explore our region

Explore our region

From our picture-perfect mountain, to our sparkling sea there are countless opportunities to explore, discover and experience Taranaki.

The highlight of the region’s unique environment is undoubtedly the iconic Mount Taranaki. From the vivid green of the lower slopes to the stunning views from the 2518m summit, Mount Taranaki offers a range of experiences unique to the region, and is accessible from anywhere in the province.

The Manganui Ski field provides club skiing and snow-boarding in the winter months, and tour guides offer expert guidance for those keen to reach the summit of this spectacular peak in summer.

Tramping (or hiking) is one of the most popular activities on Mount Taranaki. With over 200km of walking tracks throughout Egmont National Park, you can choose from 15-minute jaunts to waterfalls and short meanders through a wide variety of vegetation and native bird life to the epic three-day Pouakai circuit track.

Taranaki has been labelled the ‘Garden of New Zealand’ since pioneering times – and for good reason. Rich volcanic soils, a mild climate, high sunshine hours and plenty of rain combine to create conditions that cultivate a huge range of plants within this temperate environment.

The region now boasts one 6-star, six 5-star, nine 4-star and two 3-star gardens. Some of the most famous are the public Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust, Pukekura Park, Brooklands, Tupare and Hollard gardens.

Taranaki has become known as an events capital and punches well above its weight in terms of attracting international superstars. The region is lucky to have the TSB Bowl of Brooklands, a natural amphitheatre housed in Pukekura Park, a 50-hectare park in the centre of New Plymouth city. This world-class venue has attracted many famous international artists including REM, UB40, Sir Elton John, Jack Johnson, Simply Red, Fleetwood Mac, Lionel Ritchie, Sting, Paul Simon, and John Farnham, as well as hosting the annual WOMAD and Tropfest festivals. The TSB Stadium is another event venue, where the likes of Slash, INXS, The Beach Boys and Westlife have all performed in recent years.